The Lagos State Government has clarified reports claiming that ₦4.2 billion was proposed in the 2026 budget for the purchase of office furniture and microphones for the Office of the Deputy Governor.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Lagos State Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget said the reports were based on a misunderstanding of the budget document. The ministry explained that the ₦4,247,816,006 figure mentioned in the media is the total capital allocation for the Office of the Deputy Governor for the 2026 financial year, not an amount set aside only for furniture and microphones.
“The total capital allocation for the Office of the Deputy Governor for Y2026 is ₦4,247,816,006. This figure has been incorrectly represented as an allocation solely for the purchase of office furniture and microphones,” the statement said.
According to the ministry, out of the ₦4.2 billion capital vote, ₦4,077,816,006 is earmarked for the reconstruction of the Round House complex. The Round House is a six-storey building that houses more than 50 offices within the state government structure.
The government said the project will cover structural upgrades, retrofitting works, and the installation of alternative energy infrastructure for the building. Officials explained that many government buildings in Lagos are being upgraded to meet modern standards and improve energy efficiency.
The ministry further stated that the remaining ₦170 million in the capital allocation is for the purchase of office equipment, furniture, fittings and other related capital items.
“The balance in the sum of ₦170,000,000 of the budgeted capital allocation covers purchase of office equipment, office furniture and fittings and other capital items,” the statement added.
The government attached screenshots of the budget master sheet to support its explanation and promote transparency.
The clarification followed public reaction to reports suggesting that billions of naira were being set aside for office furniture at a time when many Nigerians are facing economic hardship.
Across the country, rising inflation and high cost of living have made citizens more sensitive to government spending. Lagos, as Nigeria’s commercial centre and the most populous state, often faces public scrutiny over its large budget figures.
The Lagos State Government has in recent years presented budgets running into trillions of naira, focusing on infrastructure, transportation, health and education. However, specific line items can sometimes generate controversy when taken out of context.
In its statement, the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget stressed that all budgetary provisions are guided by due process, fiscal discipline and established accounting standards.
The ministry urged media organisations and stakeholders to verify details through appropriate channels before publishing reports that may cause confusion.
“The Government reiterates that budgetary provisions are guided by due process, fiscal discipline, and established accounting standards. Stakeholders and media organisations are encouraged to seek clarification through appropriate channels to ensure accurate reporting,” the statement said.
The ministry also expressed regret over any misunderstanding caused by how the budget items were classified in the public document.
Government officials explained that the reconstruction of the Round House complex is part of efforts to improve working conditions and service delivery within the state’s public service.
The building, which houses more than 50 offices, plays a key role in supporting the Office of the Deputy Governor and related departments. Structural upgrades and retrofitting are expected to make the building safer and more efficient.
The inclusion of alternative energy infrastructure is also in line with Lagos State’s broader policy of encouraging sustainable energy use in public buildings. In recent years, the state government has promoted solar and other alternative power solutions to reduce reliance on the national grid and lower operating costs.
The 2026 fiscal year budget is expected to continue Lagos State’s focus on infrastructure development, economic growth and social services. In previous budgets, the state allocated substantial funds to road construction, housing projects, healthcare facilities and public transportation.
As Nigeria’s economic hub, Lagos generates significant internal revenue but also faces high demand for services due to its growing population. Government officials often argue that large capital budgets are necessary to maintain and expand infrastructure.
However, public accountability remains an important issue. Civil society groups have repeatedly called for clear communication and easy-to-understand budget breakdowns so that citizens can track how public funds are spent.
The latest clarification by the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget appears aimed at addressing such concerns and preventing misinformation.
For now, the Lagos State Government maintains that no ₦4.2 billion allocation was made solely for furniture and microphones. Instead, it insists that the bulk of the amount is for the reconstruction and improvement of a major government building.
The controversy highlights the need for clear reporting and careful interpretation of official documents. As economic challenges continue across the country, public interest in how government funds are used is likely to remain high.
By providing a detailed breakdown of the allocation, the state government hopes to reassure residents that public resources are being managed responsibly.
